88R10222 BK-D
 
  By: Murr H.R. No. 371
 
 
 
R E S O L U T I O N
         WHEREAS, The Texas Hill Country is one of the fastest-growing
  regions of our state and nation, and the area's continued growth
  presents unique challenges to the stewardship of its natural
  resources; and
         WHEREAS, A significant economic engine for the Lone Star
  State, the Hill Country boasts a regional GDP of nearly
  $300 billion and a population of more than four million people,
  many of whom choose to live there because of the high quality of
  life and numerous opportunities the area affords; and
         WHEREAS, Spanning 18 counties in Central Texas, the Hill
  Country contains the headwaters of 12 of Texas' rivers, thousands
  of natural springs, and four of the state's nine major aquifers; a
  total of more than 1,100 miles of river flow through the region, and
  it is home to some of the most highly visited parks in the entire
  state park system; and
         WHEREAS, The Hill Country's natural areas provide habitats
  for at least 300 species of plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, and
  fish of the greatest conservation need, many of which depend on land
  and water preservation efforts for their survival; and
         WHEREAS, The historic practices of farming, ranching,
  hunting, and fishing are likewise increasingly threatened by
  unprecedented development, traffic, soaring land prices, soil
  erosion, and the degradation of free-flowing streams in the region,
  putting families at risk of losing their livelihoods; and
         WHEREAS, Locally driven initiatives offer a responsible way
  to manage future growth while protecting the area's lands, waters,
  and rural communities; ensuring the long-term prosperity of the
  region requires collaboration between its diverse stakeholders,
  including rural and urban residents, elected officials,
  businesses, farmers and ranchers, builders and developers, and
  representatives of the recreation and tourism industries; and
         WHEREAS, By working together, we can protect the Texas Hill
  Country for generations to come, and it is fitting that we
  acknowledge the critical importance of taking action for the sake
  of all who appreciate this dynamic and beautiful area of our state;
  now, therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 88th Texas
  Legislature hereby recognize the Texas Hill Country as an integral
  part of the State of Texas and commend those who are endeavoring to
  preserve the region's precious natural resources and iconic
  landscape.